[u01d1] Unit 1 Discussion 1 Models of Criminal Justice

Models of Criminal Justice

Competencies Addressed in This Discussion

• Competency 1: Analyze theories and models of criminal justice.
• Competency 4: Analyze criminal justice issues.

Introduction

As discussed in the unit readings, there are two main models of criminal justice. The model the criminal justice system has placed emphasis on has changed numerous times over the course of history due to a variety of factors.

Often, the U.S. Supreme Court decisions drive criminal procedural boundaries and actions. For example, the Miranda v. Arizona decision clearly tipped the scales toward individual rights and one could easily argue that this decision represents the due process model. It certainly would not represent the public-order side of the debate. Any of the supreme court decisions allowing exigent circumstances for police to search or ask questions without a warrant or without providing Miranda warnings would tip the scales toward the public order side of the debate.

Instructions

For this discussion, research a U.S. Supreme Court case involving criminal law or criminal procedure that fits the due process model or public-order model. After reviewing the case, address the following in your main post:

• Summarize the key case points of the case.
• Identify which model is best represented by the court opinion in this case.
• Explain why the decision represents that particular model.
• Establish the impact of this decision to the criminal justice system.
• Determine how the decision might affect you as a criminal justice professional.

Discussion Objectives

The competencies addressed in this discussion are supported by discussion objectives:

• Competency 1: Analyze theories and models of criminal justice.
  • Identify a model represented by a supreme court decision.
  • Explain how the decision represents the model.
• Competency 4: Analyze criminal justice issues.
  • Establish the impact that the supreme court decision has on the criminal justice system.
  • Determine the impact of the decision from the perspective of a criminal justice professional.